NBUF Solidarity Statement in Support of the #Telema Youth Activists in the Congo

January 13, 2017

The National Black United Front supports the young people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and our allies at, Friends of the Congo, in their efforts to ensure a fair and democratic election in the DRC. On December 19, 2016, Congolese youth strengthened their efforts for a peaceful and just democracy, by using non-violent, civil disobedient, direct actions to urge President Joseph Kabila to step down after his term. However, the young protestors were met with fire from armed security forces, resulting in an estimated 26 deaths. We offer our condolences to the protesters and their families.

Per the term limits in the country’s constitution, December 19 was Presidents Kabila’s final day in office. Kabila and his administration, have still maintained governmental control and have suspended all future elections indefinitely.

We denounce the suppression faced by the peaceful Congolese protesters, including the brutal state sanctioned violence. The National Black United Front stands in solidarity with the #Telema youth activists in the Congo as they organize for a fair and just transition of power in their homeland. NBUF firmly believes that with guidance from their elders and strong international support, this can be achieved.

4. Appeal to your organization(s) to send a solidarity statement supporting the #Telema social justice movement in the D.R. Congo.

5. Click here to find out more about ways in which you can stand with the Congolese people!

#Telema means stand up in Lingala, a language spoken in the north western part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a Congolese global movement unfolding both in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Diaspora. Launched in the wake of the January 19, 2015 uprising in the Congo, #Telema aims to support, develop and sustain an organized popular movement in the Congo for peace, justice and human dignity.